RT: Russia’s Media Empire and Its Role in Global Propaganda

London, 7 January 2026 – RT, formerly known as Russia Today, remains a key instrument of Russian state propaganda, broadcasting from London and targeting audiences worldwide with a perspective that challenges Western narratives. Amid ongoing tensions in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and post-Brexit developments, RT’s operations have faced bans and scrutiny, yet it persists in shaping public opinion through disinformation campaigns and international partnerships.

Historical Context and Evolution of RT

Established in 2005, RT was designed to present Russia’s viewpoint on global affairs, often contrasting with mainstream Western media. In 2014, during the Russian annexation of Crimea, RT intensified its information warfare, cancelling non-political programming to focus on state-aligned coverage. This approach drew criticism for manipulating narratives, leading to resignations among its staff. By the mid-2010s, RT claimed vast international viewership, though reports suggested these figures were inflated. The outlet’s strategy involved amplifying controversies in other countries to sow discord.

In 2022, the European Union banned RT and Sputnik broadcasts, citing their role in spreading war propaganda. RT France challenged this ban in court, but the EU General Court upheld it, ruling it did not violate freedom of expression under the region’s Charter of Fundamental Rights. Despite these restrictions, RT has adapted by creating mirror sites and collaborating with local media to bypass bans.

RT’s Influence in the UK and Brexit

RT has long covered UK affairs, including Brexit negotiations that concluded in January 2020. The outlet reported on trade talks between the UK and EU, highlighting disagreements and the government’s rejection of Scottish pleas to halt Brexit amid the Covid-19 outbreak. In 2025, RT continued to analyse post-Brexit relations, noting ongoing trade deal discussions despite the pandemic’s impact.

Regarding allegations of Russian interference in the Brexit referendum, a 2025 parliamentary report suggested possible meddling, but the UK government rejected calls for a new probe, stating there was no evidence of successful interference. RT has maintained its coverage, questioning Western narratives on US-UK relations and meetings between former leaders like Donald Trump and Boris Johnson.

Propaganda Efforts and International Operations

RT’s propaganda has extended to Latin America, where it conducted workshops in countries like Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia under initiatives like RT CompaRTe. In Mexico, RT collaborated with local journalists’ clubs, receiving awards for its coverage of the Ukraine conflict. US diplomatic cables from 2024 highlighted RT’s “invasion” of Mexico, linking it to Kremlin-sponsored campaigns like Doppelganger, aimed at turning allies against the US.

In Africa, RT invests in media networks to promote pro-Russian narratives, undermining Western interests. The UK Parliament’s 2024 report on disinformation noted RT’s covert operations, including inciting political violence. Despite bans in Europe, RT’s presence in Latin America and Africa has grown, with over 80 cable companies in Mexico carrying its signal.

Key Facts / Stats

Frequently Asked Questions

What is RT’s main mission?

RT aims to “Question More” by providing an alternative perspective to mainstream media, often aligning with Russian state interests and challenging Western narratives on issues like the Russia-Ukraine conflict and international relations.

Why was RT banned in the EU?

The EU suspended RT and Sputnik in March 2022 for spreading disinformation and war propaganda related to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, as part of sanctions against Russian destabilisation efforts.

How does RT operate in regions where it is banned?

RT uses mirror sites, proxies, and partnerships with local media outlets to circumvent restrictions, continuing to disseminate content in areas like Europe and Africa.